Crazy for Kombucha

Kombucha is known in ancient cultures as the “elixir of life.” Sales of the fizzy drink are on the rise, and the demand for this beverage known to support a healthy gut continues to grow.

As its popularity is increasing, more manufacturers are trying to get in to the kombucha-making game to reap its rewards.

Given this, you may need a little guidance about what to look for to make sure you’re getting the tastiest and healthiest probiotic sip possible.

Here are a few things to think about when selecting kombucha.

What are the health benefits?

Some claim kombucha can prevent everything from high blood pressure to cancer, but the scientific evidence simply isn’t there to prove it.

There’s limited evidence that you’ll get the same benefits as you would from taking a probiotic supplement, such as enhanced immunity and preventing GI issues, such as constipation.

The fermented tea drink also contains a dose of B vitamins, which help convert the food you eat into energy.

Look for “live probiotic” on the label to make sure you’re getting the real deal.

See also 4 Gut-Healthy Foods

Is there alcohol in this?

In short, yes, but the percentage is small—less than 0.5%. Kombucha won’t make you tipsy unless you’ve purchased the “over 21” variety that is required to be labeled as an alcoholic beverage.

How do I store it?

According to Kombucha Brewers International, the majority of kombucha sold on the market is raw and biologically active. Cold temperatures are important so the drink doesn’t over-ferment, so keep any kombucha you pick up at the supermarket in the fridge for best results.

Try these brews:

• KeVita Pineapple Peach Master Brew Kombucha with 4 billion CFUs of probiotics.
• Reed’s Lemon Ginger Raspberry Kombucha made with spring water and fresh ginger root.
• Brew Dr. Superberry Kombucha made with organic 100% raw kombucha.

Karen Morse, MPH, is a freelance health and nutrition writer. In her free time, she enjoys Pilates, exploring nearby hiking trails and cooking up fresh, seasonal eats in the kitchen. Her work has appeared in Clean Eating, Weight Watchers, YouBeauty.com and others.